Eswatini partners with Google to drive digital transformation and economic growth

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January 22, 2025
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2 min read
Google's office building

Key highlights:

  • The partnership focuses on equipping young people with essential digital competencies, preparing them for the evolving job market.
  • By leveraging Google's technologies, Eswatini aims to improve the efficiency and accessibility of its public services.
  • The collaboration seeks to foster a culture of innovation, encouraging entrepreneurial ventures within the country.

Eswatini has embarked on a significant partnership with Google to drive its digital transformation and economic growth. Announced by the Minister of ICT, Savannah Maziya, this collaboration aims to integrate Google's advanced tools into the nation's 'Government in Your Hand' initiative.

This initiative is part of a broader trend of African nations embracing digital transformation to stimulate economic development. Google has been instrumental in supporting such efforts across the continent. For instance, in 2021, the company announced a $1 billion investment fund for Africa, targeting areas like digital transformation for businesses and support for entrepreneurs.

“This partnership is a step towards positioning Eswatini as a leader in the digital economy, unlocking opportunities for our people, especially the youth," Maziya said at the launch event themed 'Innovating Together: Strategic Partnerships for Eswatini’s Digital Transformation and Economic Prosperity'.

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“This collaboration symbolises a shared vision of leveraging innovation to transform Eswatini into a digital hub that competes globally. With 70% of our population being youth, this initiative lays the foundation for creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and accelerating sustainable economic development.”

In line with these objectives, Google has launched various programs to bolster digital skills and innovation. The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, for example, has provided mentorship and resources to numerous startups, aiding in the development of solutions across sectors like fintech, healthtech, and artificial intelligence.

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Moreover, Google's commitment to enhancing internet accessibility is evident through infrastructure projects like the Equiano subsea cable, aimed at increasing Africa's internet capacity.

Such initiatives are crucial for countries like Eswatini, where improved connectivity can lead to significant socio-economic benefits.

The partnership between Google and the Southern African country also underscores the potential for smaller African nations to leverage technology for development. By adopting digital tools and fostering innovation, these countries can address unique challenges and create opportunities for their populations.

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Education stands to gain substantially from such collaborations. Access to digital resources can enhance learning experiences and bridge educational gaps, particularly in remote areas. Google's initiatives, like the introduction of Swahili language support in its AI chatbot, Gemini, demonstrate a commitment to making technology more inclusive and accessible.

Eswatini's alliance with Google represents a strategic move towards embracing digital transformation. By focusing on youth empowerment, public service enhancement, and entrepreneurial support, the country is positioning itself to harness the benefits of the digital age, setting a precedent for other nations in the region.

I quit being a superhero to be an ex-Jedi. Now I travel across galaxies as a media nerd.
I quit being a superhero to be an ex-Jedi. Now I travel across galaxies as a media nerd.
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